Booking Policy

The Whale Centre Booking Policy

Please review the following information before completing your reservation with The Whale Centre.

Arrival & Check-In

Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time to allow enough time for check-in, waiver completion (if needed), and safety briefing. Tours depart promptly at the scheduled time and cannot be delayed for late arrivals. Guests who miss their departure may be considered a no-show and are not eligible for a refund.

Waivers

All tours require a signed liability waiver. You must read, understand, and accept the waiver before participating in any tour.

  • All participants must sign a waiver prior to departure.

  • Minors (18 and under) must have a parent or legal guardian sign on their behalf.

  • If you do not accept the waiver terms, you will not be permitted to participate.

  • By completing your booking, you acknowledge that the waiver has been made available to you in advance and that you agree to its terms.

Booking Fees

In addition to listed tour prices, the following fees are applied at checkout:

  • 5% GST

  • $3.00 Clayoquot Sound Access Fee (per person)

  • $15.00 MHSS Fee (Hot Springs tours only)

  • $4.00 BC Parks Fee (Hot Springs tours only)

  • $10.00 Fuel Surcharge (per person)

  • 6% fees on Fareharbor website

Tour Minimums

Tours require minimum passenger numbers (varies by tour). We reserve the right to cancel departures that do not meet minimum requirements. If this occurs, we will make every effort to reschedule you or provide suitable alternatives.

Passenger Guidelines

  • If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking preventative medication well before departure.

  • Ocean conditions can change quickly and may become rough. Open-water tours may not be suitable for everyone.

  • We are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal items, including cameras or electronics.

  • Alcohol or drugs are strictly prohibited before or during tours.

  • Dogs are not permitted on tours. We can recommend local pet sitters if needed.

  • Open-ocean tours are not recommended for guests who are pregnant or who have neck, back, or joint injuries.

  • Meals, food, and coffee are not permitted onboard at this time.

  • Please inform us of any relevant medical or physical conditions when booking.

Age Categories

  • Infants: 0 - 2

  • Children: 2 - 12

  • Youth: ages 13–18

  • Seniors: 65+
    Valid ID may be required.

Cancellation Policy

If we must cancel a tour due to weather or unsafe sea conditions, you may choose to reschedule or receive a full refund.

If you need to cancel or change your booking:

  • At least 48 hours’ notice is required, 72 hours for private tours.

  • Changes or cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice will be charged in full to the card on file.

Coupons & Discounts

  • Valid for Whale Watching, Bear Watching, and Hot Springs Tours

  • Valid on adult rates only

  • Must be entered at checkout at time of purchase

  • Cannot be combined with other offers

  • Non-transferable and not redeemable for cash

  • Cannot be applied after purchase